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Rachel LaCour Niesen is an old-hat at WPPI and has taught there with Andrew Niesen and Mark Adams for many years. That might make it sound like she doesn’t understand what a first-time WPPI attendee is going through — on the contrary, Rachel has such a reputation for helping new and experienced photographers alike, we knew she’d be the perfect person to share a few tips about surviving the huge WPPI show in Las Vegas, which starts February 14.

An image by LaCour photography. © LaCour

1. Start with a Strategy

First-time WPPI attendees are often spotted meandering through the tradeshow with a glazed, “deer in the headlights” look on their faces. Don’t risk being overwhelmed and paralyzed in the tradeshow. Before you leave for Vegas, write up an action plan. Compile a “Must See” list of products and vendors that most interest you. Prioritize visiting those booths first. Then, you can be confident that you’ve visited your top vendors before wandering around the rest of the tradeshow. When you arrive, start by reviewing the WPPI Program Guide and the Tradeshow Map.

2. Take Risks

Human nature is to seek out seminars that affirm our strengths. Rather than hang out in your comfort zone, push yourself by attending classes that challenge your weaknesses. Prioritize attending seminars that push you beyond your comfort zone. Are you intimidated by lighting techniques? Then attend Matthew Jordan Smith’s “Lighting Secrets” seminar on Monday, February 16. Need to boost your confidence in your sales skills? Then attend Corey McNabb’s “Sellification” seminar on Tuesday, February 17.

3. What Happens in Vegas Should NOT Stay in Vegas

Don’t leave your new knowledge behind. One of the biggest mistakes I made after attending my first WPPI was stuffing my notebook into my desk drawer. I never pulled it out again! WPPI is an amazing learning opportunity. Don’t waste it by taking tons of notes that will never be read again. Schedule a “WPPI Recap Retreat” for yourself. Put it on the calendar, block it off so you don’t get interrupted. You will need at least a full day to review your notes and decide how to apply your new knowledge to your business in 2009. You will learn so much at WPPI — soak it up and then implement it! More »

• Take advantage of the hospitality. For WPPI’s first year at the new venue, the MGM Grand is offering attendees two-for-one dinners and drinks at almost every restaurant and club in the hotel and conference center, including places like Craftsteak and Studio 54.

• Here comes the…photographers. Be sure not to miss the Canon Mock Wedding and Opening Reception on Sunday night, where top wedding photographers Joe Buissink, Bambi Cantrell, Jerry Ghionis, Denis Reggie, and Yervant will demonstrate and describe their techniques while wedding photography duo Jim and Katarina Garner renew their vows. And, of course, don’t miss the real reception afterward, also sponsored by Canon.

• It wouldn’t be Vegas without music. WPPI and Nikon are sponsoring an exclusive concert for WPPI attendees only. The doors open for Grammy-award winning band Blues Traveler on Monday night at 9:30 p.m. in the MGM Grand Arena.

• Where’s the afterparty? Although the list of WPPI-sponsored events might seem endless, don’t forget that there will be lots of get-togethers that are not in the official lineup, like Lindsay Yates-Teal’s event for all the readers of her Pay It Forward blog, in Studio A on Sunday night after the Canon Mock Wedding and Reception.

• Get by with a little help from your friends. WPPI is an outstanding place to meet, learn from, and empathize with other photographers who know exactly what you’re going through on a daily basis. The best thing to remember is to bring lots of cards, and don’t be afraid to say “Hi.” The photography industry isn’t as competitive as most other communities — almost everyone is approachable and friendly.